Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Over Homemade Mashed Potatoes and Velveeta Mac and Cheese
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Ingredients:
1.5 pounds chicken breast
1 cup chicken broth
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 packet chicken gravy mix
Pepper, to taste
A few dashes of ranch seasoning
Instructions:
Prepare the Crockpot:
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
Pour the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup over the chicken.
Sprinkle the chicken gravy mix, pepper, and ranch seasoning over the top.
Cook:
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.
Shred the Chicken:
After 6 hours, remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot.
Shred the chicken using two forks.
Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to combine with the gravy.
Homemade Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients:
2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
1/2 cup milk (adjust to desired creaminess)
1/4 cup butter
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: 1/4 cup sour cream for extra creaminess
Instructions:
Cook the Potatoes:
Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with water.
Bring to a boil and cook until potatoes are tender (about 15-20 minutes).
Mash:
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
Add the milk, butter, salt, pepper, and optional sour cream.
Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Adjust the milk for desired consistency.
Velveeta Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
8 ounces elbow macaroni
8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cut into cubes
1/2 cup milk
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Cook the Macaroni:
Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a saucepan over low heat, combine the Velveeta cheese and milk.
Stir constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine:
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assembly
Serve the Dish:
Place a generous scoop of mashed potatoes on each plate.
Top with a portion of the shredded chicken and gravy.
Serve with a side of Velveeta mac and cheese.
Enjoy:
Enjoy your hearty meal of crockpot chicken and gravy over homemade mashed potatoes, with a side of creamy Velveeta mac and cheese.
20 Popular Questions and Their Answers:
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used and may provide a richer flavor.
Can I use a different cheese for the mac and cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack.
Can I make this meal ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare each component ahead of time and reheat before serving.
How can I make the mashed potatoes creamier?
Add more milk or butter, or even a bit of cream cheese or sour cream.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, instant mashed potatoes can be a quicker alternative.
Can I add vegetables to the crockpot chicken?
Yes, adding vegetables like carrots or peas can enhance the dish.
What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?
You can omit it or use Italian seasoning as a substitute.
Can I use gluten-free pasta for the mac and cheese?
Yes, gluten-free pasta can be used.
What other sides go well with this meal?
Steamed vegetables, salad, or rolls make great sides.
How do I thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?
You can mix a little cornstarch with water and add it to the gravy to thicken.
Can I use homemade gravy instead of a packet?
Yes, homemade gravy can be used for a more personalized flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze the chicken and gravy?
Yes, it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I use broth instead of milk in the mac and cheese?
Milk provides creaminess, but broth can be used for a lighter version.
How can I make the meal healthier?
Use low-fat dairy products and add more vegetables.
Can I cook the chicken on high for a shorter time?
Yes, cook on high for about 3-4 hours.
Can I use a different type of pasta for the mac and cheese?
Yes, any short pasta like penne or rotini will work.
What type of potatoes are best for mashing?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for mashing.
Can I use water instead of broth for the chicken?
Broth adds more flavor, but water can be used in a pinch.
How do I make the chicken gravy spicier?
Add a dash of hot sauce or some red pepper flakes to the gravy.
30 Secrets to Master the Recipe:
Season Each Layer: Season the chicken and potatoes separately for more depth of flavor.
Shred Chicken: Shred the chicken finely for a more even distribution in the gravy.
Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic in the mashed potatoes enhances the flavor.
Slow Cooker Liner: Use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup.
Low and Slow: Cooking the chicken on low ensures it stays tender.
Use Warm Milk: Warm the milk before adding to the mashed potatoes to keep them hot.
Extra Cheese: Add extra cheese to the mac and cheese for more creaminess.
Season to Taste: Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Gravy Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the gravy by simmering it longer or adding more broth.
Use Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for added freshness.
Sear Chicken: Sear the chicken before adding to the crockpot for added flavor.
Pasta Water: Save some pasta water to adjust the consistency of the mac and cheese.
Butter Amount: Increase or decrease butter in mashed potatoes based on your preference.
Creamier Gravy: Add a splash of cream to the gravy for a richer texture.
Crispy Bacon: Top the mashed potatoes with crispy bacon bits for extra crunch.
Garlic Butter: Use garlic butter in the mashed potatoes for added flavor.
Velveeta Alternatives: Use a blend of cheeses in the mac and cheese for a more complex flavor.
Oven Finish: Finish the mac and cheese under the broiler for a crispy top.
Marinate Chicken: Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor.
Caramelized Onions: Add caramelized onions to the mashed potatoes for a sweet-savory twist.
Cheese Variety: Mix in different types of cheese for a unique mac and cheese.
Gravy Enhancer: Add a splash of soy sauce to the gravy for umami.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs and ingredients whenever possible.
Pressure Cooker: Use a pressure cooker for faster preparation of chicken and gravy.
Baking Dish: Use a high-quality baking dish for even cooking.
Consistent Size: Cut the chicken and potatoes into uniform sizes for even cooking.
Check Temperature: Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
Stirring Technique: Stir the mac and cheese gently to avoid breaking the pasta.
Rest Time: Let the chicken rest after shredding for juicier meat.
Family Feedback: Adjust the recipe based on family preferences and feedback for a personalized touch.
Enjoy your hearty and comforting meal of crockpot chicken and gravy over homemade mashed potatoes with Velveeta mac and cheese!